Optimisation of Structural Systems with Regards to Future Repurposiong Current Practices and Suggestions for Improved Design Methods
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Program
Structural engineering and building technology (MPSEB), MSc
Publicerad
2023
Författare
NILSSON, JOHANNA
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
As the climate situation becomes more critical, sustainable solutions and behavioural
changes are required in all sectors and contexts. One sector that contributes
significantly to greenhouse gas emissions is the building and construction sector.
Therefore, it is necessary to start evaluating and rethinking how we can address the
demand for new buildings in ways that are more environmentally sustainable and
climate-smart compared to current methods. This involves assessing opportunities
for repurposing, reuse, and refurbishment instead of demolishing and rebuilding.
The purpose of this master’s thesis is to evaluate what influences the possibility
of repurposing and how one can overcome these challenges in different ways. Is
optimising for current purposes and later strengthening critical parts the best approach,
or should one overdimension to enable future repurposing and increased flexibility?
Four different case studies were conducted to evaluate the common consequences
of repurposing. The case studies were carried out for two different systems: a steel
system with HDF floor slabs and a timber system with CLT floor slabs. To evaluate
various situations, the studies were conducted using parametric design, with
background information based on a literature review and insights from industry experts.
The results showed that there are good opportunities for strengthening measures
in steel systems, making it a feasible alternative when choosing steel as a building
material. It is recommended to optimise the use of materials in new constructions to
apply suitable reinforcement methods during repurposing. The results also indicated
that reinforcement methods for timber systems are somewhat more complicated, and
there is not as much benefit in optimising current structures. Therefore, a combination
of overdimensioning and subsequent reinforcement during potential repurposing
is suggested.
Finally, a conclusion is drawn regarding the importance of constructing buildings in
a way that allows for future reinforcement. This is crucial in determining potential
future reinforcement measures’ complexity, material and energy requirements.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
sustainability, Repurposing, Optimisation, Strengthening technique, Beam Column system